King Peggy is an astonishing new nonfiction book that I got out of the library today. It’s the true story of a woman from Ghana who came to the US as a secretary at their embassy, worked hard, became an American citizen — and then was chosen to be king of a village run by her family, which she had visited but which wasn’t really her hometown. But it’s no fairy tale. The lady finds herself in a town with pitiful infrastructure, astonishing corruption, family who need help, and a few people who are so full of malice and envy that they are choking on it. But even though it’s a tough job, somebody needs to do it….
It’s a really astonishing book, and not just because the story and the people are so compelling. The journalist who co-authored the book goes to a lot of effort to help the reader understand a totally alien culture, particularly how someone in such a culture can sincerely be a devout Christian while also much concerned with various spirits and small gods. The good and bad of Ghana comes out, and it will fascinate you. You will also feel very grateful for the normal things of life.
I’m really glad I checked this book out from the library. It’s a quick read, but enough happens in two years of reign-time that you’ll think it was a saga. I really hope it works out for these folks.
The book’s website includes a link to donate to the town’s cause, if you would like to join the story a bit yourself. 
There are also book signings coming up in the DC area and elsewhere.
